The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to investigate the safety of foods that contain caffeine and their effects on health of children and adolescents.
This move comes after Wrigley introduced a caffeinated gum called Alert Energy Gum, which is being marketed as an instant energy booster. The FDA has already begun investigation into energy drinks and energy shots, in response to reports of illness and death.
FDA's deputy commissioner of foods Michael Taylor was reported by the Associated Press as saying that the agency is concerned whether caffeine added to foods have been adequately evaluated.
The agency will assess the potential impact of these easy sources of caffeine on children's health and will take action if necessary, Taylor added.
Over the recent years, food manufacturers have added caffeine to candy, nuts and other snack foods, and have labeled them as for adult use only.
Meanwhile, Wrigley spokeswoman Denise M Young said that the Alert Energy Gum is for adults who are seeking for foods with caffeine for energy and each piece contains about 40 mg, or the equivalent amount found in half a cup of coffee.
The company will work with FDA, Young added.
